Launched in December 2007, the Recycle Swop Shop is an empowerment initiative for children in Gansbaai. It aims to clean up the community and teach environmental awareness. It combines conservation, social improvement and education in a unique way. The children of Masekhane collect bottles, tins, plastics and other recyclables and bring them in bags to the White Shark Swop Shop. In return, they earn buying points that they 'spend' in the shop. For example, one bag of tins might be traded for a bar of soap, two might be worth a pencil, or they can save up for something more expensive. The shop carries only worthwhile stock such as stationery, simple clothing, and food basics, and relies completely on donations.

Why stuff your rucksack?:

South Africa has the largest HIV-positive population in the world, with more than 2.5 million children made parentless and vulnerable by the disease. With the breakdown of the family comes poverty and desolation. White Shark Projects seeks to empower young people in Gansbaai with education, self-sufficiency and pride in their community, and your items can help them achieve this goal. With little effort you can have a big impact on the lives of others less fortunate that yourself; and be a great inspiration in the creation of better and more experiences to visitors and residents alike.

How to get there:

Gansbaai is a 2-hour drive from Cape Town, which is served by Cape Town International Airport. Gansbaai is easily accessible via road or helicopter transfer.

Need to know:

The Swop Shop is only open on Tuesday afternoons for two hours from 14:00 - 16:00. You will need to schedule your visit during this time.

During the South African school holidays the shop is closed. You will need to schedule your visit outside of these dates.